What is the Annual Fund? The Annual Fund is a yearly campaign to raise funds for Texas Southern University. It provides immediate funds to supplement the university’s operating budget or towards a specific need. Annual fund gifts have a significant impact on the university’s ability to support programs not funded by state appropriations. This year’s focus of the annual fund is providing scholarships to deserving students to supplement the expenses of tuition, as well as offering scholarships for recruitment of exemplary prospective students.
Why does the University need annual giving?
State funding and student tuition only cover a percentage of the university’s operating budget. Additional funds are required to expand our programs, offer more scholarships, and improve our campus. Unrestricted gifts to the annual fund allow us to apply the funds to the greatest need of the university. All other restricted annual fund gifts will fund university scholarships among the ten colleges and schools on campus.
I can only make a small contribution. Does that really help?
Absolutely! For example, if 40 people each gave $25, that would cover a student's annual cost of books and supplies. If 36 people each gave $100, that would cover tuition for an undergraduate student. It all adds up! For TSU it is not how much you give, but that you give. Alumni participation, especially loyal participation from year to year, not only aids the university financially, but also factors into Texas Southern University’s ranking.
How are my contributions used?
100% of annual fund gifts go to the areas designated by you, our donors, friends and alumni. All restricted annual fund gifts fund scholarships and you may specify which area, college or school your scholarship gift supports. All unrestricted gifts fund the greatest need of the university and help bridge the gap between state support and tuition fees, and what is actually needed to operate the university.
How can I make a contribution?
There are many options available for making gifts, and we have worked to make sure each one is easy and convenient. You can mail us a check, give online, or include Texas Southern University in your estate or will. You can also call us and give us your credit card information over the phone to make a gift. Contact the Office of Development at 713-313-4276.
Is my gift tax deductible?Yes, TSU is qualified as a tax-exempt organization under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Code, so all gifts to the University are tax deductible. To find out more about tax deductibility visit the IRS website at www.irs.gov.
What is a matching gift?
Many companies encourage their employees to make charitable contributions by matching their
philanthropic support. At TSU, donors receive credit for their employers' matching gifts, meaning the match will also count towards your gift totals. The impact of corporate matching support can be enormous. Hundreds of companies have matching gift programs. To find out if you work for one of them, you can search online, or consult your human resources office, which will also provide you with a matching gift form. Please include this matching gift form with your gift.
I've already paid my Alumni Association dues. Does that make me a donor?
No. Membership dues for the National Alumni Association (or local Alumni Chapters) are not contributions to Texas Southern University, and therefore do not receive tax-deduction credit. Being a donor is about supporting the university’s schools and programs that you care about most at TSU.
